2008 Paris Auto Show: 2010 Lexus IS 250C Convertible

• Competes with: Infiniti G37 convertible, Volvo C70, BMW 3 Series convertible
• Looks like: Lexus destroyed all the cool lines of the IS sedan
• Drivetrain: Same 208-hp, 2.5-liter V-6 that’s found in the IS 250 sedan; six-speed automatic transmission
• Hits dealerships: Late 2009

Lexus has let its SC convertible wither on the vine, and now we know why. The company is going downscale with its next retractable-hardtop convertible, tapping its entry-level IS line of sedans to serve as the basis for the IS 250C retractable-hardtop convertible.

While the new IS 250C is decent-looking with the top down, we’re a bit taken aback that the distinct, somewhat masculine lines of the sedan are all but absent here. What we’re left with is more of an inheritor of the SC and a competitor with the Volvo C70 than it is something dramatic – like the early look we’ve seen of the Infiniti G37 convertible, which, by the way, will also pack a lot more power.

We do like the three-piece aluminum roof though … well, not the way it looks when up, but how it stows efficiently enough to pack a full-size golf bag into the trunk.

Check out the photos below and let us know if you think this new Lexus convertible will be a hit.

Comments

Looks really nice to met. I like the side profile with the top up. This will be a car for me to consider for sure!

Looks really nice to met. I like the side profile with the top up. This will be a car for me to consider for sure!

If it wasn't for the Lexus emblem on the front, I would think it was the C70 at first. Not at all what I was hoping for. Is pricing known yet?

No pricing yet. And I totally thought C70 too.

Damn...who let the Chrysler Sebring designer out of his cage?

It looks like a Toyota Solara.

As for as base price, would $35,000 sound farfetched? I guess the design isn't for everyone. But I certainly love it.

It looks ok, but much more sedate than an IS should. It definitely looks more like an SC than an IS.

I guess a base price of $38,000.

The C70 is nicer looking. This ruins the IS line, it looks awful.

Price guesstimate?

I have an IS250 and it is a great looking car. Lexus doesn't need to add a convertible to the IS line. Does look like a solara.

I think it looks more like a Chrysler Sebring. Lexus should have used the IS as a basis but redesigned it from the ground up. They also could have done a IS coupe with a Targa top because of the IS's short roof.

I wouldn't say it is as bad as the Sebring BUT....

It definitly looks like an SC with the IS front end and taillights. The back is what does it, it is way to high and doesn't have enough shape.

I'm sure it willl get worked out in the next generation, but how long will that take??

The BMW & Infiniti convertibles will rule the segment. (hopefully)

I think it's badass. Hopefully they will offer the 3.5L also.

There will be a 3.5L offered from other reports that I've read. So it should be good to go.

shame on the Sebring comment! I think it looks so much better than that piece of crud! I don't see "Solara" in this, what r ya'll looking at??

does look a little like c70, thats good. but its a lexus and will drive much better than any volvo. the interior is great and overall, this is 2 sexy cars in one. where do I send my depsit for a 350c?

This looks like everything out there, except the Lexus IS. Far too much borrowed from the Sebring and C70. Where are the aggressive lines of the IS?

Does anyone know if this will be a front or rear wheel drive?

Definitely RWD. There is an AWD sedan. Don't know if that will make it to the convertible though.

shame on the Sebring comment! I think it looks so much better than that piece of crud! I don't see "Solara" in this, what r ya'll looking at??

Looks really nice to met. I like the side profile with the top up. This will be a car for me to consider for sure!

does look a little like c70, thats good. but its a lexus and will drive much better than any volvo. the interior is great and overall, this is 2 sexy cars in one. where do I send my depsit for a 350c?

shame on the Sebring comment! I think it looks so much better than that piece of crud! I don't see "Solara" in this, what r ya'll looking at??

It definitly looks like an SC with the IS front end and taillights. The back is what does it, it is way to high and doesn't have enough shape.